In this post, I will delve into the fascinating contrast between traditional diets and the modern processed food environment. From the Maasai of East Africa, who thrive on animal-based fats, to the Kitavans and Tukisenta, who rely primarily on carbohydrate-rich foods, these diverse groups have lived free from the chronic diseases that plague modern societies—despite consuming diets that would challenge conventional dietary wisdom. Interestingly, many of these populations, such as the Kitavans and Maasai, smoke regularly yet do not suffer from high rates of cancer or heart disease. This article examines what we can learn from their lifestyles and dietary patterns, emphasizing how processed foods, especially refined carbohydrates and seed oils, are likely at the root of modern health crises. Through the lens of these traditional cultures, I explore how real, whole foods promote health and how the modern diet is undermining it.
Read MoreI recently heard an interview with Calley and Casey Means that really resonated with me regarding my concerns about the state of health in America. Their message struck a chord with me, and I believe it's crucial for everyone to hear. Casey Means, a physician who left a thriving career in traditional medicine, and her brother Calley, a whistleblower advocating against the corruption in the food and pharmaceutical industries, have joined forces to address what they see as the root cause of America’s health crisis: our toxic food environment.
Casey and Calley have a compelling story. Casey was frustrated with the medical profession's approach to treating illness, as she found herself constantly treating symptoms rather than addressing the underlying causes of her patients' ailments. Calley, on the other hand, was disturbed by the overwhelming influence of big food and big pharma on both doctors and patients. Together, they concluded that our poor health is due to the modern processed foods dominating our diets, and the reason we remain sick is because the pharmaceutical and medical industries benefit from this steady stream of unhealthy patients. This post will discuss their concerns and recommend the solutions.
Read MoreOne of my central warnings on this site is we must avoid eating processed carbohydrates to stave off disease and optimize our health. I have written about it so much that I believed everyone who reads my posts understands what they are. Recently, I have spoken to people who think processed carbs are donuts and cake, not bagels and sandwiches. This post is dedicated to them and all who need a reminder about what processed carbohydrates are, and why they should be avoided. If you don't want to read the whole thing, skip to the end, where I tell you how to identify them and list the most common sources of processed carbs.
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